Beautiful hikes, close to the Hotel CHRIS-TAL

Whether on a family hike, a hike with friends or even on one’s own, the mountain spirit in you cannot afford to miss out on the less-known hikes offered in this area, as well as the more visited spots like the « Balcon de Merlet » or the « Gorges de Diozas ». Here, below, we have outlined some of the loveliest walks; but please note that, even if recommended, you should always check the weather before starting out, and you should be properly-equipped and have a good level of fitness. If heading out on your own, you should always leave the details of your anticipated route with someone.

From the hotel, head SOUTH towards l’Aiguillette des Houches : the ascent to the Aiguillette peak takes about 4 hours from the hotel, passing by the Bettey carpark (1h30; 1330m), via the Chalets Chailloux (1h30; 1917m) and arriving at the summit of the Aiguillette (1h; 2200m). From here, you might to decide to return using the Télépherique du Brévent (Brevent cable-car) (2h; 2480m), and you could even spend some time in the centre of Chamonix if you leave early enough in the day and make good progress. From the Aiguillette, you can alternatively return the same way you came and this is possible with snow-shoes in winter (the risk of avalanche is low, but should be checked).

From the hotel, head NORTH towards the Mont-Lachat pass : this ascent takes about 3 hours from the hotel, passing by the dam, « les barrages », (30mins; 1300m), then Cabane des Arandellys (1h30; 1760m), arriving at the pass of Mont-Lachat (1h; 2070m). This is a fairly exposed walk in parts and, therefore, only recommended for the experienced hiker. Return using the Télépherique de Bellevue (Bellevue cable-car), 30mins from the summit. This walk is not possible in winter with snow-shoes, as it is too dangerous.

From the hotel, head WEST towards the Prarion summit : this ascent takes about 3 hours from the hotel. You walk through Les Houches village, to reach the Chalets de Charousse, via La Côte (1h; 1100m), then you continue towards the 4x4 piste, which is located below the summit of « Maison Neuve » (45mins; 1475m), and continue to the Col de Voza (30mins; 1650m), finally arriving at the Prarion summit, where you can have a rest and be rewarded with a 360 degree view of the French side of the Massif de Mont Blanc, at the Hotel du Prarion (45mins; 1850m), which is run by the Hottegindre family. This walk is possible with snow-shoes in the winter, with a low danger risk, as long as you don’t get lost!

From the hotel, head EAST towards « La Jonction » : this ascent takes about 4 hours and it is necessary to access the start of this hike by taking a bus (or alternatively go by car) to the Bosson carpark. The hike then heads up towards the « Chalet Pyramides » buvette (2h; 1895m), then to Mont Corbeau (1h; 2300m), to the « Gite à Balmat » (30mins; 2540m), and then finally to the summit of « La Jonction » (30mins; 2590m). You will arrive at the crossing of two of the valley’s main glaciers : Glacier des Bossons and Glacier de Taconnaz. This walk is too dangerous to be undertaken in winter.